High Prairie, Alberta - The man commonly and affectionately referred to as "Sir George" in High Prairie received a King Charles III Coronation Medal during a ceremony at the High Prairie Legion Hall on February 19, 2025.

George Bennett, 102, was recognized for a lifetime of volunteer service to the High Prairie community. High Prairie Royal Canadian Legion president Don Ebbett applied for the medal for Bennett and says he fit all the criteria.

In May 2023, to mark the coronation of His Majesty King Charles III, Prime Minister Justin Trudeau announced the government intention to award 30,000 Coronation Medals to Canadian citizens who have made significant contributions to the country.

A Lifetime of Service

Before presenting the medal, Ebbett noted only a few of the achievements and community service by Bennett, a former flying officer with the Royal Air Force, serving from 1941-47. Bennett came to High Prairie in 1954 to visit his sister and never left.

He was treasurer at Pleasantview Lodge, St. Marks Anglican Church and the Legion for 18 years, not giving up the post until he was 101. He is still a lifetime member of the Legion, virtually never missing a meeting or function.

Bennetts passions spread into other areas of the community, including recreation. He was treasurer of the High Prairie and District Golf Club for many years. The annual seniors golf tournament is named in his honour.